Joseph Arthur: Redemption's Son. Actually, anything by Joseph. It's unfortunate he has never broken out as a star. He's got more talent as a musician/singer/songwriter/producer than any one person I can think of. He's the whole picture, a whole talent. And he's one of the most prolific and varied artists I know too. I will admit in some ways I enjoy having Joseph as my private pleasure, though. It makes the music seem even more personal to me.
Madonna: Bedtime Stories. I really hate this album is glossed over because of it's successor, Ray Of Light. To me, this is probably Madonna's most honest, real work. And I think the way it slowly transitions from being an R&B album, to a very existential, ethereal, almost Spanish influenced album as it wraps up is just so genius. It's such an unlikely transition, but it is still striking to hear every single time I listen to the album.
Sheryl Crow: Wildflower. This album was pretty much universally lampooned, even by Sheryl fans, and it didn't sell very well compared to it's predecessors. I still stand by my opinion that it was absolutely the perfect album for Sheryl to make at the perfect time. And it's tremendously enjoyable as a folksy concept album to boot.
Amy Winehouse: Back To Black. Yes, over 10 million people have bought this album, and Amy's a bona fide superstar because of it. But do you ever hear anyone discuss the music? The album is sublime. Amy's the real deal... she just oozes talent. This one album single handedly sparked a revival in roots-style Soul and R&B. And for just reason... it's THAT good. I hate Amy's personal problems have wholly overshadowed her immense talent.
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